On November 10 Clarkson officials discussed grant funding to help with costly needed improvements for the city sewer system, as well as manhole work.

City Clerk and Treasurer Alicia Hayes said the current sewer system, located on Highway 88, is hanging up and causing problems for area residents.

“We will have to redo the inside of the system,” explained Hayes, “because those type of pumps are not made anymore.”

Both lift stations have two pumps inside them that hang on rails. The pump that is causing the city problems is obsolete, because the company does not make that model anymore.

“We need to buy a new pump,” added Hayes, “and we will have to change the rail.”

Mayor Bonnie Henderson said the commission was looking into applying for grant money to help with costs to upgrade the system.

Other things the city is looking into working on manholes in the area, which are filling up with water. Henderson explained that it would be a costly investment though.

Other business:

 • Henderson spoke briefly on receiving 16 emergency management disaster training hours, allowing the city to qualify for FEMA money.

She explained the training, through the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management, was to make sure that everyone knew what their roles were when an emergency does occur. The training took place on October 18 and 25.

• Plans for the new Clarkson Elementary School are progressing along, with the completion date of the building set for June 2010.

The Grayson County School Board will begin accepting construction bids on February 3, and will break ground at the site on March 1.

• The city Christmas tree-lighting ceremony will be December 7 at 4:30 p.m. at Clarkson City Hall.

Santa will be available that afternoon for pictures with area children, refreshments will be served, and a local kid’s choir will be singing traditional Christmas songs to the audience.

• The city employee Christmas party will also be held at Clarkson City Hall on December 11 at 6 p.m.